American Cockroach

• Also known as the Water bug and Palmetto bug.
• The largest species of common cockroach.
• Despite the name, it was introduced to the U.S. from Africa.
• 1.5 in or larger
• Reddish brown with a yellowish margin on the body region behind the head.
• Live in warm, moist areas.
• Feeds on decaying organic matter especially fermenting foods.
• Considered one of the fastest running insects.

German Cockroach

“Blattodea. Cascuda. Santiago de Compostela 1” by Lmbuga – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons.

• Most common species in homes, apartments, hotels, and restaurants.
• 1/2 inch in length
• Tan to light brown with 2 dark parallel lines running down the back.
• Can hide easily and fit into very small cracks and crevices
• Eat starch, sugar, grease, and meats.
• Commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Prefer warm, humid places.
• Pose health risks.

Oriental Cockroach

• Also called waterbug or black beetle
• 1 in long
• Has wings, but doesn’t fly
• Very dark brown to almost black and shiny
• Feeds on garbage and decaying organic matter
• Found outdoors under debris, stones, leaves, etc.
• Founds indoors in dark, damp areas such as basements and crawl spaces
• Enjoys cooler temperatures than other cockroach species

Smoky Brown Cockroach

“Cockroach egglaying 2” by Toby Hudson – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

• Also called woods roach or waterbug
• A little over 1 inch long
• Dark mahogany color
• Prefers warm, damp, dark, and poorly ventilated areas
• Founds in sheds, subfloors, mulch, and leaf litter
• Can fly short distances